In this work, crack initiation in adhesive lap joints of arbitrary joint configuration is studied by means of a finite fracture mechanics approach. The analysis is based on a general stress solution for adhesive joints combined with a coupled stress and energy criterion. The instantaneous formation of a crack of finite size is predicted if a stress and energy criterion are satisfied simultaneously. The closed-form analytical solution of the stress field allows for an efficient evaluation of the crack initiation load and corresponding finite crack length. A comparison to experimental results from literature and to numerical results obtained with a cohesive zone model approach shows a good agreement.